A Dedication to Philanthropy

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At the urging of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett, these 40 wealthy families and individuals have pledged to give at least half of their fortunes to philanthropy--during their lifetime or after death. Based on our wealth estimates this year, these pledges amount to a promise to eventually donate at least $120 billion. The Giving Pledge is a moral commitment to give, organizers note, not a legal contract. Says Buffett, "The Giving Pledge is about asking wealthy families to have important conversations about their wealth and how it will be used."